The Toyota driver went head-to-head with team-mate Sébastien Ogier for the championship in the final round of the season. Before Rally Saudi Arabia, Evans held a narrow three-point advantage over the Frenchman.
As expected, Evans suffered from opening the road on the first day but remained in the title fight, which was only settled on the final day of the season. Ogier secured the bonus points he needed on Saturday and clinched his ninth world crown by four points over the Welshman.
Check the final WRC standings here!
Evans was forced to settle for second place in the championship for the fifth time in his career.
“I think we did what we could within reason. I think the puncture on Friday didn’t help, but that’s the name of the game in this rally – everybody’s had their fair share of issues. We’ve done what we can,” said Evans, who finished sixth in Saudi Arabia.
Evans was the only driver to complete every special stage of the year. He scored two rally wins and eight podiums, but even that wasn’t enough to beat Ogier.
“We’re competitors at the end of the day. We always want better, we always want more. Of course, it’s been a good season. We have a fantastic team behind us, pushing us all the way. I just have to say thank you to everyone at TGR – amazing job.”
Ogier skipped three rallies this season, yet still managed to take the title. The Frenchman claimed no fewer than six rally victories this year.
Evans paid an honest tribute to his team-mate.
“Seb’s been amazing all year – six rally wins. He deserves his title,” said the Welshman.
Evans and Ogier will both stay with Toyota next season. Evans will contest all rallies again, while Ogier is set for a programme of at least eight WRC rounds.
“We’ll be back next year, and we’ll keep trying,” Evans promised.
